Buyer I

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented Buyer to join our manufacturing team. The ideal candidate will have experience in purchasing raw materials, components, and production supplies within a manufacturing environment. This individual must be highly analytical, comfortable working with MRP/ERP systems, and able to use data to drive purchasing decisions, inventory optimization, and supplier performance.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute purchasing activities to support production schedules and customer demand.
• Utilize MRP recommendations to maintain optimal inventory levels while minimizing excess inventory.
• Issue purchase orders, monitor supplier acknowledgments, and ensure on-time deliveries.
• Analyze inventory trends, demand forecasts, and supplier performance using ERP data and reporting tools.
• Work closely with Production Planning, Operations, Engineering, and Quality to resolve material shortages and supply issues.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and delivery schedules with suppliers.
• Maintain accurate supplier, item, pricing, and lead-time information within the ERP system.
• Monitor supplier performance metrics, including quality, delivery, and cost.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory management, procurement processes, and data accuracy.
• Assist with cycle counts, inventory reconciliation, and annual physical inventories as needed.
• Develop reports and dashboards to support purchasing and inventory decisions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of purchasing or buying experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of MRP planning, inventory control, and production scheduling.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems in a manufacturing setting.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and data analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and negotiation abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365, Dynamics AX, Business Central, or NAV.
• APICS/ASCM CPIM or CSCP certification.
• Experience purchasing machined parts, fabricated components, electrical components, or industrial materials.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience creating purchasing metrics and KPI dashboards using Power BI or Excel.

Skills

• MRP Planning
• ERP Systems (Microsoft Dynamics preferred)
• Inventory Analysis
• Supplier Management
• Purchasing & Procurement
• Data Analysis
• Forecasting
• Production Planning Support
• Cost Management
• Attention to Detail